The DPC specifically focuses on the protection of personal data. Personal data is any piece of information that can help identify an individual, such as a full name, email address, or a photo or video. It can even include information about what an individual searches for online or the kinds of posts a person likes on social media.’

The DPC’s core tasks involve:

• providing guidance on best practices in data protection to organisations, companies and the public;
• cooperating with data protection authorities in other EU Member States;
• handling complaints lodged by individuals who have concerns about how their personal data is being used;
• carrying out investigations and inquiries as to whether data protection laws are being complied with by companies.